St Helens transport interchange steel framework tops out in construction milestone
Construction of the St Helens Transport Interchange has reached a major milestone, with the steel framework for the northern concourse completed and celebrated with a symbolic ‘golden spanner’ ceremony.
The £35 million project is part of a wider town centre regeneration scheme delivered by the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, St Helens Borough Council, and English Cities Fund (ECF), with VINCI Building acting as main contractor.
The steel framework was built using low-carbon steel sourced from Italy, produced with electric arc furnace technology that reduces carbon emissions by 60–75% compared to traditional methods.
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Approximately 90% of the steel in the build uses this sustainable material, supporting the project’s focus on energy efficiency and carbon reduction.
VINCI Building Senior Project Manager Martin Horton said: “Reaching the highest point of the structural frame to the northern concourse is a major technical milestone, especially given the sustainable materials used in its construction.
“Low-carbon steel – created from recycled scrap metal – significantly reduces emissions. When combined with the solar panels on the roof and a glass façade that maximises natural light, we are delivering a state-of-the-art facility designed for energy efficiency.”
Regeneration and Community Impact
The interchange forms a key part of the town centre’s regeneration, improving travel for bus passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians. Features include 11 bus stands (up from nine), an enclosed concourse with real-time travel information, step-free access, a Travel Centre, Changing Places toilets, secure covered cycle storage, and upgraded landscaping and lighting. Local businesses have been involved in the delivery, including Liverpool-based Webber NW Ltd and St Helens specialist firm N.L. Williams Group, supporting local skills and jobs as part of the St Helens Inclusive Growth Strategy.
Cllr Steve Foulkes, Chair of the Transport Committee at the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, added: “The completion of the steel framework is a tangible sign of what our investment in sustainable transport infrastructure can achieve. This Interchange links communities and provides a high-quality alternative to the car, supporting a genuine shift towards greener travel.”
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Councillor Anthony Burns, Leader of St Helens Borough Council, said: “Watching the steel frame reach its full height is a proud moment. This facility is designed with residents in mind – from accessible facilities to weather-protected cycle storage – and represents a modern landmark that will restore pride in the town’s critical infrastructure.”
The project is funded with £32 million from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, supplemented by contributions from the Government’s Towns Fund and St Helens Borough Council, with completion scheduled to transform the town centre’s transport hub.
